According to a survey conducted by the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) in collaboration with Emory and Harvard Universities, workplace interventions can have a significant impact on reducing the risk factors associated with diabetes, hypertension, and weight gain.
The 18-month-long intervention, called INDIA WORKS, implemented various strategies such as modifying food options in workplace canteens, promoting healthy choices, and increasing physical activity through group exercise sessions and daily walks. The results showed that 25 percent of participants were able to achieve normal HbA1c levels and maintain them for two years, while also experiencing a decrease in systolic blood pressure and weight loss. This study provides a valuable guide for companies to implement healthier recommendations for their employees and prevent the further upsurge of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. The bottom line is that implementing workplace interventions, such as healthy canteen meals and group exercises, can lead to improved health outcomes, including better blood sugar control, lower blood pressure, and weight loss.
Key points from the survey include:
– INDIA WORKS, an 18-month-long intervention, successfully reduced risk factors of diabetes among subjects in 11 workplaces in five states.
– The intervention focused on modifying food options in workplace canteens, promoting healthy choices, and increasing physical activity through group exercise sessions and daily walks.
– At least 25 percent of participants achieved normal HbA1c levels and sustained them for two years.
– Systolic blood pressure decreased by 3 mm Hg, equivalent to a 15 percent reduction in hypertension.
– The average weight loss was one kilogram, and there was a reduction in waist circumference.
– INDIA-WORKS provides a valuable work guide for Indian companies to implement healthy recommendations for their employees.
Overall, the INDIA-WORKS program demonstrated the effectiveness and success of implementing workplace interventions to improve health outcomes. By making simple and sustainable lifestyle changes, employees can prevent and manage chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. The results of this study highlight the importance of creating healthier workplaces and the mutual effort between management and employees to promote employee well-being.
